Islamic Heritage Sites in Jordan

A Journey Through Faith & History

Walk in the Footsteps of Prophets, Companions, and Heroes of Early Islam

Jordan is a land deeply woven into the fabric of Islamic history, home to holy shrines, historic battlefields, and spiritual landmarks that span the lives of prophets, companions, and key events from the dawn of Islam. From the caves where revelations were remembered to the graves of those who shaped the faith, Jordan offers a profound pilgrimage experience—one that complements visits to Al-Aqsa Mosque or Hajj and Umrah journeys.

Key Islamic Sites in Jordan

1. Battle of Mutah & Martyrs' Tombs

– Location: Al-Mazar Al-Janubi, near Kerak
– Significance: Site of the first major Muslim-Byzantine battle (629 AD).

Who Was Martyred:

– Zaid ibn Harithah – The Prophet’s (ﷺ) freed slave and adopted son.
– Ja’far ibn Abi Talib – Cousin of the Prophet (ﷺ), known as Ja’far at-Tayyar (the Flyer).
– Abdullah ibn Rawahah – Poet and devoted companion.

Visit Today: See their well-preserved tombs and a memorial mosque.
Time Needed: 1 hour

2. Prophets' Shrines

Jordan is home to numerous prophets revered in Islam:

– Prophet Harun (Aaron) → Jabal Harun near Petra
– Prophet Shu’ayb (Jethro) → Wadi Shu’ayb
– Prophet Ayyoub (Job) → Al-Salt
– Prophet Yusha (Joshua) → Near Al-Salt
– Prophet Sulayman (Solomon) → Sarfah, Kerak
– Prophet Yahya (John the Baptist) → Mukawir Fortress

3. Cave of the Seven Sleepers (Kahf Al-Raqim)

– Location: Near Al-Raqim village
– Quranic Reference: Surah Al-Kahf (Chapter 18)
– Significance: Where seven faithful youths sheltered from persecution.
– Time Needed: 45 minutes

4. Desert Castles (Umayyad Era)

– Examples: Qasr Amra, Qasr Kharana, Qasr Azraq
– Significance: Early Islamic art, architecture, and governance.
– Time per site: 30–45 minutes

5. Aqaba’s Islamic Sites

– Ayla Islamic Museum → Early Islamic port city
– Mamluk Fort → Strategic Red Sea defense

Historical Battlefields

– Battle of Yarmouk → Liberated Levant from Byzantine rule.
– Battle of Fahl (Pella) → Early Muslim victory in Jordan Valley.
– Battle of Mutah → Honored in Quranic context (valor and sacrifice).

Practical Information for Visitors

– Location: Sites are spread across Jordan—from north (Irbid) to south (Aqaba).
– Best Time to Visit: October–April (mild weather).
– Dress Code: Modest clothing; headscarves for women at shrines.

How to Explore

– Guided Tours: Recommended for context and access to remote sites.
– Self-Drive: Possible with a rental car; use GPS and local directions.
– Combined Itineraries: Pair with visits to Petra, Dead Sea, or Amman.

Why Visit Jordan’s Islamic Sites?

Jordan offers a unique opportunity to connect with Islamic history beyond Mecca and Medina. From the first battle of Mutah to the resting places of prophets, these sites embody faith, sacrifice, and divine remembrance. Whether you’re a pilgrim, history lover, or cultural traveler, Jordan’s Islamic heritage invites deep reflection and spiritual renewal.